An invitation without permission and other ways to surprise your parents

When I was a kid, the worst sin besides saying “shut up” to your brother or answering your mom with “huh?” instead of “ma’am?” was inviting someone over, particularly to spend the night, before getting permission from your parents.

This happened once: My brother ran in the door after school and said, “Mom, can Ced come over?” and my mom was kinda like, “Well, no, I don’t think that’s such a good…” and up walks this kid from my brother’s class. “Mom, this is Ced.” That was the last time that happened.

When our kid came home from preschool saying her friend Lexi had invited her over for a sleepover, we tried to explain to her that the invitation was probably made without parental consultation. Our assumptions were proven correct by the blank and then surprised look on Lexi’s dad’s face when Andrew mentioned the invite the following day. He asked her, and she informed him that, yes, she had extended the invite. And that the duration of the sleepover would be five nights.

So, Lexi’s parents, just know that Hazel totally has our permission to go. Just in case, you know, you think it’s a good idea or whatever.

I woke up my 15-year old son Wednesday morning for school only to find a friend in his room. He had left me a voice mail outlining the details of his plans at 11:00 the night before. (Bedtime is 9:00) I “kindly” explained that leaving me a voicemail is NOT the same thing as asking for permission.

Lexi’s mom: Our surprised look has more to do with the fact that Lexi has only slept in her bed by yourself for like 2 weeks now. Yes, you heard right! 4 years old and only just sleeping by herself. Proud parenting at its best. It is actually ridiculous that we haven’t had Hazel over sooner since our family loves both Hazel and her hilarious parents. Perhaps a formal invitation will be coming….

Hey, even at 4, we can be independent women – no need to ask for ‘permission’

When I was 6, I invited my friend Jayme to my house to spend the night even though my parents said no because I had homework I hadn’t done. She showed up, pillow and all, because I told her mom that my mom said it was okay. Well imagine my mom’s look of surprise when Jayme showed up. They let Jayme stay, but I had to do my homework before I could go play Barbies, and I got in a lot of trouble the next day. I still remember it though, and I still snicker a bit about it.